Netflix inks first Middle East content bundle deal with MBC Group

Shahid and Netflix now available under one subscription on MBCNOW in Saudi Arabia

Last updated: July 28, 2025 | 17:45

2 MIN READ

The bundled plan will allow users to access Netflix, Shahid, and MBC’s live TV channels through a single subscription — marking Netflix’s first such regional tie-up in the Middle East.

Dubai: Netflix has entered into its first regional partnership of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), teaming up with MBC Group to offer a combined streaming bundle alongside Shahid, MBC’s Arabic-language video-on-demand service.

The collaboration brings Netflix content to MBCNOW, a new entertainment platform launched earlier this year by MBC Group. The bundled subscription will give users access to Netflix, Shahid, and MBC’s live TV channels under a single payment plan — a first in the region for the US-based streaming giant.

This strategic tie-up represents a significant move for Netflix in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf market, where competition in digital streaming has intensified amid rising local demand for both Arabic and global content.

The bundled subscription will be sold in Saudi Arabia through major retailers and e-commerce platforms, with MBC stating that the plan offers more than 20% in cost savings compared to purchasing separate Netflix and Shahid subscriptions.

Also Read: Streaming in UAE? Cancelling Netflix, Prime Video may soon get harder

Tapping Mideast potential

The MENA region has long been a high-growth market for streaming services, with consumers increasingly favouring digital content hubs that blend local and international viewing. By joining forces with MBC — the region’s largest media company — Netflix is positioning itself to tap deeper into Arabic-speaking households, particularly in the Gulf.

“This collaboration is part of our ongoing commitment to provide unparalleled global and local experiences for our audiences in the region,” said Bhanu Chaddha, Director of Distribution and TV Products at MBC Group.

Mohammed Al Kuraishi, Head of Business Development and Partnerships, Middle East and Africa at Netflix, added that the move would bring users “easy access to our service and an incredible variety of international and Arabic shows, movies, documentaries, and more.”

MBCNOW, launched in February 2025, functions as an aggregator platform and aims to bridge traditional broadcast and digital streaming under one interface. The addition of Netflix further positions it as a go-to content hub for Saudi and Arab audiences.

Justin VargheseYour Money Editor

Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence. Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.